Esco-Bar, the celebrated Lebanese bar-restaurant concept by MEC Concepts, takes its global expansion to new heights with the opening of Esco-Bar Coctel y Cocina in Palm West Beach Dubai in 2022. Led by Marc Chehade, CEO at MEC Hospitality, Esco-Bar has firmly established itself with a total of nine outlets, including seven in Lebanon, one in Cairo, and the Dubai addition. The brand is set to open soon another outlet in the UAE( location to be revealed soon), marking its continued global footprint, and is actively seeking franchisees for expansion into the MENA and GCC. Crafting Latin Aut ..read more

Celebrate World Book Day with six curated reads from Librairie Antoine, perfect for the ever-evolving world of hospitality. The First-Time Manager: Leading Through Crisis HR and leadership expert Paul Falcone guides managers through unforeseen workplace challenges. From individual crises to global issues, Falcone offers practical strategies for overcoming adversity. Whether handling disciplinary actions, internal disputes, or company-wide stress, this book equips managers with the tools to navigate any situation effectively. Drawing on his expertise, Falcone provides actionable advice to ma ..read more

Lebanon’s tourism landscape is an intriguing mix of triumphs, challenges and resilience. From the reflections of industry leaders to strategies for revival, we explore the dynamic forces shaping Lebanon’s tourism outlook in the face of adversity. While more than 330 institutions opened in the previous summer season, just 30 percent of them have succeeded, according to the Syndicate of Restaurants, Cafes, Night Clubs and Pastry Shops in Lebanon. However, the syndicate president, Tony Ramy, said: “Although we are worried, we will not give up.” Facing the challenges Lebanon has long dealt ..read more

Posist, a pioneer in cloud-based restaurant technology solutions, has announced a comprehensive rebranding as it changed its name to Restroworks. Furthermore, this new identity reflects the company’s evolution since its 2012 inception as a point of sale provider. Serving global restaurant chains like Taco Bell, Subway, Nando’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Belgian Waffle Company and groups like Dabur, ITC and Reliance, it operates across multiple formats, including food courts, IT parks, universities and food zones in airports. “In 2012, we started Posist with the vision of making a mark in restaura ..read more

Diogo Ildefonso, general manager of Glee Hospitality Solutions , discusses the evolution of foodservice, from food trucks to fine dining. In recent years, the culinary landscape has undergone a remarkable evolution. Furthermore, the industry has witnessed a cultural shift across various facets of the foodservice industry, from food trucks to fine-dining establishments. Notably, the transformation reflects changing consumer preferences, innovation and a deeper appreciation for diverse culinary experiences. The rise of food trucks Once associated with convenience and quick bites, food tru ..read more

Giovanni Battista (GB) Mantelli is not only the keeper of Venchi traditional recipes but also the creator of innovative chocolates. We spoke to him to find out more about the brand and his plans for the Middle East. What can you tell us about the inspiration behind opening the ChocoGelateria boutique in Dubai Mall? Venchi ChocoGelateria is a celebration of Italian craftsmanship and culinary passion. It seamlessly blends the finest Piedmontese chocolate traditions with refreshing gelato. However, the inspiration behind opening this boutique in Dubai Mall was to offer an indulgent experience ..read more

In the ever-evolving hospitality landscape, Monica E. Chikhani, managing director and founder of MEC Workshop, explores the relevance of video marketing in hospitality. In 2024, a video strategy is pivotal for storytelling, showcasing destinations and driving guest loyalty and booking decisions. The vital role of video marketing A staggering 84 percent of travelers report booking decisions influenced by video content. Additionally, showcasing the unparalleled ability of video to convey the allure and experiences a destination offers. Amid fierce competition, video marketing helps hospit ..read more

Em Sherif recently launched its newest concept Em Sherif Deli in the heart of Beirut. Em Sherif Deli offers ready-to-eat favorites from its menu, along with exclusive dishes available to go. Clients can select from a variety of breakfast offerings, plats du jour, sandwiches, salads, small bites and sweet treats. Additionally, the deli has a specialty beverage corner serving innovative takes on traditional drinks like matté, arak and natural wines. It also features a homemade mouneh (pantry) and a special deli merchandise corner. Furthermore, the all-day deli occupies a modern, welcoming ind ..read more

The Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Saudi Arabia looks set to present an impressive lineup and agenda for 1,200 hotel investors at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh, from April 29 to May 1, 2024. Under the theme “Invest in Tomorrow: Today, Together,” FHS Saudi Arabia will bring together the hospitality investment community’s industry leaders and decision-makers. The summit will discuss sustainable development, investment opportunities, industry entrepreneurship, human capital, and Saudi Arabia’s hospitality and tourism sectors. Jonathan Worsley, chairman of The Bench, said: “We have de ..read more

We caught up with Habib Saliba, the man behind Horeca Experts SARL, to understand the company’s position in the market and the secrets behind its success.   Why did you launch Horeca Experts in 2010? We identified a gap in the market behind the bar in terms of premium beverage solutions. Primarily, a comprehensive portfolio of syrups, liquors, sauces, fruit purees and powders for shakes and frappes was absent. In addition to a lack of a fine tea selection. Additionally, there was a need for significantly better service with more consistent follow up. Our industry passion and dedica ..read more